How the Pandemic Changed College Life

How the Pandemic Changed College Life

The Coronavirus pandemic has changed our daily life in a lot of ways. For college students, it changed the way of living and learning. In March of 2020, colleges decided to close their campuses and moved to online classes with different platforms; some decided to no longer require standardized tests. Tests such as the SAT or ACT for admissions or opted to use a pass/failing grading system.

Some of these changes will be temporary, however, others may be permanent. After reading the interview that CNBC’s Make It program made with education experts, including professors, business leaders, and lawyers, we learn how high education changed because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Fewer Dorms

In the past, finding a roommate to share your dorm was one of the most exciting things to do when you’re a freshman. Since the pandemic, university housing will never be the same. Some schools announced that housing will be less dense, meaning that the typical dorm with several roommates will not be possible anymore.

Digital Textbooks

The CEO of Barnes and Noble Education, Mike Huseby, says that the pandemic accelerated a trend that his business has been anticipated for so long, the rise of digital books. Some students still prefer physical textbooks because it is more comfortable. That is why they are not going to disappear altogether. The shift to digital is accelerating, which is increasing the percentage of courseware offered digitally to 30% this summer.

One benefit of this new trend is the way of paying and distributing textbooks, giving inclusive access to programs for students at a low fee which is included in their tuition.

More Students Studying Online Full-Time

At the beginning of 2020, students were forced to move classes online. Now, it is possible that these students will continue to choose this way of learning in the years ahead.

Not only do these students prefer this type of learning, but also they will be open to learning in alternative ways. Looking for more affordable, flexible, and accessible education methods.

Fewer International Students

To attend a US university, International Students need to complete some travel restrictions and get a student visa. Due to these obstacles, it is likely to expect a fewer number of international students in the United States.

The American Council on Education predicts that the number of international students will decrease 25% next year. Resulting in revenue lost for universities of $23 billion.

If you want to learn how to target college students, even throughout these changes, see all the services we can provide for you.

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